Luminescent Molecular Probes to Detect Phosphate in UK Waterways (Ref: CM/SB-SF1/2026)

About the Project

A major unsolved challenge for environmental agencies is to monitor inorganic phosphate in water, to predict the breakout of harmful algae blooms that lead to aquatic ‘dead zones’. To solve this challenge, in this PhD project we will synthesise molecular probes that bind selectively to phosphate anions and generate a sensitive luminescent signal that enables precise measurement of phosphate in water. In collaboration with the Loughborough EcoSENSE team, we will encapsulate our luminescent probes into hydrogel materials using our patented technology, thereby delivering new tools for the measurement of aqueous phosphate levels. This project will provide a vital step towards the accurate mapping and prediction of harmful algae blooms, alerting environmental and health agencies to take appropriate action to maintain and improve water quality.

Full Project Detail:

High levels of inorganic phosphate released into waterways through sewage, fertiliser and pesticides and is a primary cause of the spread of environmentally detrimental algae. A major unsolved challenge for environmental agencies is to monitor excess phosphate in water to predict the breakout of harmful algae blooms, which lead to aquatic ‘dead zones’ and danger to human health. The cost of responding to water-based phosphate pollution in the UK alone is estimated at £170 million per year. Crucially, there are no existing sensors or devices capable of detecting phosphate which have been miniaturized for point-of-need testing and mapping of large waterways (e.g. rivers, lakes).

To solve this challenge, this PhD project will synthesise molecular probes that bind selectively to phosphate anions and generate a sensitive luminescent signal that enables precise measurement of phosphate in water. We have established the design principles to create luminescent probes that exhibit high binding selectivity for target biological phosphate anions (Chem. Sci., 2022, 13, 3386). We will build on this knowledge to develop probes with enhanced sensitivity for inorganic phosphate and minimal interference compared with existing sensing methods. We will encapsulate these luminescent probes into hydrogel materials using our patented technology, thereby delivering a new method for the measurementof aqueous phosphate levels. This project will provide a vital step towards the accurate mapping and prediction of harmful algae blooms, enabling environmental and health agencies to be alerted early enough to take appropriate action to maintain and improve water quality.

The student will gain excellent training in a range of techniques including organic synthesis, study of supramolecular host-guest interactions, luminescence assay development. They will be supported by other researchers within the Butler Group and will be very well trained for roles in industry through collaboration with industrial partners. Environmental and biotechnology companies increasingly require scientists with combined synthetic and bioanalytical skills. Therefore, there are many potential employability options for the student, in addition to postdoctoral opportunities in this highly active research field.

Find out more:

Butler Group Research Website: https://butlerresearchgroup.wixsite.com/welcome/home

Chemistry Profile: https://www.lboro.ac.uk/departments/chemistry/staff/academicresearch/stephen-butler/

Name of primary supervisor/CDT lead:
Stephen Butler s.j.butler@lboro.ac.uk

Name of secondary supervisor:
Helen Willcock

Entry requirements:
Applicants should have or expect to achieve at least a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent international qualification) in Chemistry.

English language requirements:
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website (http://www.lboro.ac.uk/international/applicants/english/).

Bench fees required: Yes - Bench fee value: £2000 per annum

Closing date of advert: 1st February 2027

Start date: July 2026, October 2026, February 2027, July 2027

Full-time/part-time availability: Full-time 3 years

Fee band: 2025/26 Band RB (UK £5,006, International £28,600)

How to apply:
All applications should be made online. Under programme name, select Chemistry. Please quote the advertised reference number: CM/SB-SF1/2026 in your application. To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit a CV and the minimum supporting documents.

The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application. Please note that this criteria is used for both funded and self-funded projects.

Please note, applications for this project are considered on an ongoing basis once submitted and the project may be withdrawn prior to the application deadline, if a suitable candidate is chosen for the project.

Project search terms:
applied chemistry, chemistry, environmental chemistry, inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, supramolecular chemistry, sensors, probes, lanthanide, luminescence, fluorescence

Email Address Sci:
sci-pgr@lboro.ac.uk